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Full Time Animal Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Z&A Management

Animal Keeper - Full Time

Folsom, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Degree in Zoology, Marine Biology, Animal Science, or a related field. * Passion for animal care, education, and conservation. * Comfort working in a guest-facing, interactive environment. * Strong ...

San Bernardino County

Animal Keeper I

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$19.41 - $28.18/hr

Six (6) months of full-time equivalent paid or volunteer experience involving the care, handling ... biology, animal science, wildlife biology, wildlife management, veterinary technology ...

LSU AgCenter

... two full-time employees and numerous part-time student workers. This position reports to the ... Baccalaureate and/or Master's degree in Animal Science or closely related field.Knowledge and ...

Louisiana State University

... two full-time employees and numerous part-time student workers. This position reports to the ... Baccalaureate and/or Master's degree in Animal Science or closely related field.Knowledge and ...

Louisiana Workforce Commission

... two full-time employees and numerous part-time student workers. This position reports to the ... Baccalaureate and/or Master's degree in Animal Science or closely related field.Knowledge and ...

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Full Time Animal Science information

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How much do full time animal science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time animal science in California is $20.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced when working full time in animal science, and how can professionals address them?

Working full time in Animal Science often involves balancing hands-on animal care with research or data analysis, which can be physically demanding and time-consuming. Professionals may face challenges such as managing animal welfare, staying current with evolving regulations, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. To address these challenges, it's crucial to maintain strong communication skills, seek ongoing professional development, and stay adaptable to new technologies and methodologies. Building relationships with colleagues in veterinary, agricultural, and academic fields also supports success in this dynamic work environment.

What is the difference between Full Time Animal Science vs Full Time Animal Technician?

AspectFull Time Animal ScienceFull Time Animal Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Animal Science or related fieldAssociate's degree or certification in animal technology
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, farms, or educational institutionsVeterinary clinics, research facilities, animal shelters
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, agricultural companiesVeterinary clinics, animal care facilities, research labs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding career options, qualifications, job rolesJob responsibilities, certifications, work settings

Full Time Animal Science roles typically require a bachelor's degree and involve research, education, or agricultural work environments. In contrast, Full Time Animal Technicians usually hold certifications or associate degrees and work directly with animals in clinical or research settings. Both roles are essential in animal-related industries but differ in education requirements and daily responsibilities.

What is a full time animal science job?

A full time animal science job typically involves working in fields related to the care, management, research, or production of animals. Professionals in this area may work in agriculture, veterinary medicine, research labs, or wildlife management, and their daily tasks can range from conducting experiments to supervising animal care. These roles usually require a relevant degree in animal science or a related field, and offer opportunities to work with both domestic and wild animals. Full time positions generally mean working around 40 hours per week, often with benefits like health insurance and paid time off.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time animal science professional?

To thrive as a Full Time Animal Science professional, you need a solid background in animal biology, nutrition, and husbandry, typically supported by a degree in animal science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools, data management systems, and animal care protocols is commonly required. Strong observational skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help professionals excel when working with animals and collaborating with colleagues. These competencies ensure the health and productivity of animals, support research and operational goals, and promote safe, ethical practices in animal management.

What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Science jobs in California?

The most popular types of Animal Science jobs in California are:

Full Time Animal Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Animal Science job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,209 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Animal Keeper - Full Time

Z&A Management

Folsom, CA • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Life

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Bring Curiosity to Life. Care for Animals. Inspire Every Guest.

Earn up to $1,000+ in bonuses per pay period during peak times.
At NorCal Aquarium and Wildlife Adventures, Animal Keepers do more than care for animals - they create moments of connection that spark curiosity, empathy, and lifelong respect for wildlife.

As an Animal Keeper, you’ll play a hands-on role in animal care while helping guests experience the wonder of the natural world up close. Whether you’re preparing habitats, observing animal behavior, or sharing stories with families, your work directly supports animal welfare, education, and conservation.

If you’re passionate about animals, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and enjoy engaging with people just as much as caring for wildlife, this role is for you.

What You’ll Do:
Animal Care & Husbandry:
  • Provide daily care for a diverse collection of animals, including feeding, cleaning, habitat maintenance, and enrichment.
  • Follow established procedures to ensure the highest standards of animal welfare and safety.
  • Observe animals closely and report any changes in behavior, appetite, or health.
  • Support animal movements, introductions, and routine care activities.

Guest Experience & Education:
  • Engage guests in meaningful, memorable interactions throughout the facility.
  • Share animal stories, fun facts, and conservation messaging in a way that is approachable and engaging.
  • Help guests understand the “why” behind animal care and conservation efforts.
  • Maintain awareness of guest safety and exhibit boundaries in a dynamic environment.

Mission & Conservation:
  • Actively support the organization’s mission through daily actions and guest interactions.
  • Inspire guests to care about wildlife, conservation, and responsible stewardship.
  • Represent the organization with professionalism, enthusiasm, and authenticity.

Safety & Operations:
  • Follow all safety protocols, PPE requirements, and emergency procedures.
  • Maintain clean, organized, and safe animal care areas.
  • Respond quickly to changing environments to protect both animals and guests.
  • Participate in drills, training, and ongoing safety education.

Growth & Development:
  • Learn and apply animal care techniques, handling skills, and education strategies.
  • Participate in training and actively seek feedback.
  • Build knowledge across species, habitats, and conservation topics.
  • Grow into increased responsibility over time.

Teamwork & Culture:
  • Collaborate with Animal Care, Guest Services, and leadership teams.
  • Communicate clearly, respectfully, and proactively.
  • Show up reliably and contribute to a positive, solutions-focused team environment.

What You Bring:
Required:
  • Degree in Zoology, Marine Biology, Animal Science, or a related field.
  • Passion for animal care, education, and conservation.
  • Comfort working in a guest-facing, interactive environment.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Willingness to learn, take direction, and follow established procedures.
  • Ability to work on your feet, indoors and outdoors, in a physically active role.

Preferred:
  • Hands-on experience with animals in a professional, academic, or volunteer setting.
  • Experience in education, public speaking, or customer service.
  • Background in biology, animal science, or environmental education.

Physical & Environmental Requirements:
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to work around animals, water systems, cleaning agents, and food prep areas.
  • Ability to stay alert and responsive in a fast-paced, guest-facing environment.

What Success Looks Like:
  • Animals in your care are healthy, safe, and thriving.
  • Guests leave with a memorable, positive experience.
  • You consistently follow procedures while growing your skills.
  • You build strong, collaborative relationships with your team.
  • You contribute to a culture of safety, accountability, and passion.

Schedule Expectations:
This role requires a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays. Shifts may vary based on operational needs, and reliability is essential.

Why Join Us?
  • Be part of a mission-driven team making a real impact.
  • Work hands-on with animals in a dynamic, engaging environment.
  • Grow your career in animal care, education, and conservation.
  • Create meaningful experiences for guests every day.